Queues form at Lord's

Fans were advised not to travel to Lord's this morning if they were not already in the queue to get into the ground for the final day of the historic 2,000th Test.

The home of cricket's official Twitter feed estimated 20,000 people were waiting in line with two hours still to go before the start of play between England and India.

The queue snaked down all sorts of side streets in the St John's Wood area of London and it was beginning to look likely many of those waiting would face disappointment.

There was a heavy police and stewarding presence to direct people to the back of the line, although that did not stop some trying to entice passers by into helping them secure more than one ticket. Touts were also expected to attempt to exploit the cash-only entry price of £20 for adults, £10 for over-65s and free admission to under-16s.

There was certainly plenty of value to be had on 'People's Monday', with England fans looking to see their side wrap up victory in an enthralling first Test.

India supporters arrived in hope of witnessing an improbable turnaround and, arguably more importantly, a landmark century for Sachin Tendulkar.

The 'Little Master' failed to register his 100th international ton in his side's first innings on Saturday, a day that saw tickets reportedly exchange hands for up to £900.

Tendulkar was unlikely to bat before lunch due to rules which prevented him occupying the crease until around 2pm, or until five wickets had fallen. That was after he was unable to field for two sessions yesterday due to a viral infection.

Tendulkar's popularity was demonstrated when he was treated to a hero's welcome after emerging onto the Nursery Ground for a net session.

England needed nine wickets today to take a 1-0 series lead after setting India a world record fourth-innings victory target of 458. The tourists would resume this morning on 80 for one, with Rahul Dravid (34 not out) and VVS Laxman (32 not out) at the crease.